Association executive officer Tony King, a detective senior constable stationed at Grafton, said he was concerned lack of police numbers, for whatever reason, meant police could not provide an adequate service to the community.

“Unfortunately a lack of police in the area means that at times the station has been locked, as it was for periods of time on Monday night,” Detective King said.

“With the current low staffing numbers, the police working on Monday night, with the support of the local branch of the Police Association, made the decision to lock the station for periods of time.

“It’s unfortunate that it has come to this, but the police on duty were left with no other option.

“The community deserves adequate police numbers in this area so that we can keep the police station open at all times, respond to emergencies as they arise and conduct proactive, high-visibility policing that helps reduce crime.